Recycling, re-purposing and re-using goods has never been more popular and as topics around climate change, sustainability, and the cost of living become hotter, many find themselves turning to charity shops to be greener, more environmentally friendly and nicer on the purse strings. Luckily, St Margaret’s Hospice’s charity shops are here to help us all.
A greener and more affordable way to shop
In 2024, our 31 wonderful shops helped prevent 1,500 tonnes of items from going to landfill – that’s an estimated 20,000 of CO2 emissions saved. And what an array of items we received and processed in each shop and at our central warehouse. From vintage jewellery and designer clothes to a cosplay cow suit and life-sized plastic horse, you never quite know what will come through your door – but we’ve had the privilege of selling thousands of pre-loved items at affordable prices!
Each item found a new home and owners who can now give them a second lease of life – all while helping to raise vital funds so that we can continue providing compassionate hospice care for families across Somerset. We are quite literally turning clothes and goods into care while helping to create a circular economy and combatting some of the negative impacts of mass consumerism.
Donations of clothes, bric-a-brac, crockery, toys and books have continued to keep us busy in terms of sorting, steaming and pricing, and allowed us to offer a rolling availability of stock throughout the year for our communities to enjoy.
Furniture sales have also been booming across the county, proving that setting up or refurbishing a home doesn’t have to cost the earth. Sofas and beds are incredibly popular too!
More than a shop
Our shops don’t just provide an affordable alternative but are places where local people can come together to find comfort and companionship and, in many cases, life-long friendships. As always, our shops are a magnet for family members who have found solace volunteering so that they can retain a connection with the hospice, following the loss of a loved one. Our shops have also been important community hubs in their local neighbourhoods, offering opportunities for people to learn new skills to help them get back into the workforce. Without fail the shops and those who work in them, demonstrate the huge impact they have on their local communities.
Looking to volunteer?
Our retail volunteers are vital to the running of our 31 charity shops. Get in touch if you have some free time and are looking for a friendly team and a varied role.
Considering donating your goods?
Thank you for choosing to support St Margaret’s Hospice by donating your pre-loved and high-quality items. Your generosity allows us to recycle, re-purpose, and re-home these goods, helping us raise vital funds for our hospice care. Every bag of donations could generate up to £25, directly contributing to the compassionate care we provide.
Got a larger item that you can’t get to us? We’ll come to you.
Online Shop
We have a small online shop where you can buy branded St Margaret’s Hospice items.